Is Bedrotting bad for your health?

Amber Minogue (0:03)

Is bed rotting bad for your health?

Thanks for asking.

Whether it's reading, journaling, enjoying breakfast or scrolling through social media, these are just a few activities people indulge in while lounging in bed. For some, this has evolved into an art form, popularized by a viral TikTok trend known as bed rotting. This habit embodies a laid-back attitude, where productivity and responsibilities are momentarily cast aside in favour of a few minutes or hours of procrastination. But what does this have to do with health?

Eleanor McGlinchey, a sleep psychologist at Manhattan Therapy Collective and associate professor of psychology at Fairleigh Dickinson University, suggests that spending time in bed before starting the day can provide a sense of control over our time and lives. The same concept applies at night. We attempt to reclaim control over our day by lingering in bed before sleep, effectively delaying bedtime. This phenomenon, known as revenge bedtime procrastination, serves as a form of rebellion against our daily responsibilities. What are the potential problems of bed rotting? For some, bed rotting might mean spending the entire day in bed to rest or recharge. However, experts caution that prolonged bed rest can disrupt our circadian rhythm, particularly if we remain in the dark. It's important to remember that lounging in bed is not a substitute for actual sleep. Extended periods in bed can be detrimental. We need movement for cardiovascular health, muscle tone and stress management. Moreover, this practice is ill-advised for those suffering from insomnia, as it can create an association between wakefulness and being in bed. Can bed rotting be a sign of withdrawal?

Frequent bed rotting can indeed be a symptom of depression, manifesting as a form of social isolation. Warning signs include a particular attachment to bed, difficulty getting out of it and a loss of a desire to go out. It's crucial to stay vigilant if these behaviours are accompanied by anxiety, repetitive thoughts or absenteeism from work. Seeking help from a doctor is advisable. Social interaction and exposure to daylight are essential for mental wellbeing. So, what can you do to resist? Taking a few minutes in the morning to lounge around is harmless. However, it's generally better to find another place to relax and daydream. Doing so in bed, especially if you have trouble sleeping, can disrupt your bedtime routine. Lastly, while checking smartphone notifications upon waking is common, it's not particularly restful. It's more beneficial to use this time for yourself, free from the demands of your phone. There you have it.

Now you know if bed rotting is bad for your health. In under three minutes, we answer your questions and help you understand the true meaning behind the trends, concepts and acronyms that are making headlines. Listen along and you really will know for sure.